EVERETT – During the second quarter, the Boeing Co. delivered its highest number of commercial jets since 2001.
By delivering 114 airplanes during the second quarter, Boeing brings its total deliveries this year to 220. That keeps the planemaker on track to meet its goal of delivering 440 to 445 planes in 2007.
The last time it had a higher total was the fourth quarter of 2001, when it delivered 144 commercial jets.
As is typical, twin-aisle deliveries lagged behind those of single-aisle planes. Boeing has pumped out 169 Renton-built 737s this year, 86 in the last quarter. The company delivered 302 737s last year.
The company delivered 21 Everett-built 777s, four 747s and three 767s in the second quarter.
Boeing’s year-to-date deliveries of its Everett-built 777 twin-aisle jets show an increase from the past several years. With 38 777s delivered so far, Boeing is on pace to beat its 2006 total of 65.
Deliveries of the 747 and 767 are on track to meet their 2006 totals of 14 and 12 respectively.
Boeing is gearing up for the unveiling of its new 787 Dreamliner on Sunday. The company also announced Thursday a new order for five 787s, worth $810 million at list prices, from leasing company CIT Group. Boeing has won 642 orders for its Dreamliner, made mostly of lightweight carbon fiber composite material.
“There continues to be high market demand for twin-aisle, more fuel-efficient aircraft,” said C. Jeffrey Knittel, president of CIT Transportation Finance. “We are confident that the Boeing 787 Dreamliner will deliver the level of technological innovation and comfort that our customers demand.”
Boeing’s stock increased 71 cents to close at $98.36 Thursday.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Two days to Dreamliner
Curious about Boeing’s Dreamliner? Check out reporter Michelle Dunlop’s aerospace blog at www.heraldnet.com. Dunlop will post updates about the 787 rollout all weekend.
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